CT Science Center Opens Green Rooftop Garden

Posted on June 3rd, 2012

 

Hartford, Conn. – The Connecticut Science Center has opened its green rooftop garden for the 2012 season, attracting visitors while reducing the facility’s energy consumption.

 

Native grasses and flowers insulate the building, making it more energy efficient and reducing the irrigation needed by 50 percent. Visitors will be among native plants, green rooftop architecture, and views of the Hartford area.

 

Hartford-based Northeast Utilities, with a green rooftop of its own in Berlin, presented a $25,000 gift in support of the science center’s green space. This contribution will be used in the upcoming additions.

 

Planned enhancements include a new water feature, an educational map, additional signage, and outdoor seating. Thomas McKenna, staff scientist, has planted more than 350 new plants.

 

The 6,316-square-foot plot includes a shade garden, an alpine garden, and a children’s sensory garden.

 

The Petit Family Foundation contributed by planting offspring flowers, originally from the family’s home garden. The seeds that fall from the flowers will be re-packaged and sold to raise funds for the foundation.

 

The garden is open during regular operating hours, weather permitting, and is included in the purchase of a ticket. For information visit www.ctsciencecenter.org.

 

http://buildingctgreen.com/AuggieVGreenBlog/ct-science-center-opens-green-rooftop-garden/